The arrival of 1,500 Sudanese refugees in the Sam Ouandja region of northeastern Central African Republic (CAR) could mean more war-displaced people will undertake the 10-day journey in search of safety from Darfur, local sources said.

Sudanese government forces backed by armed militias attacked Daffaq region, near the Sudan-CAR border, between 12 and 18 May, triggering the forced displacement of civilians towards Southern Sudan and various locations in northeastern CAR, including Am-Dafock and Sam Ouandja.

According to local sources, many more are making their way to Sam Ouandja to join those so far registered by the local CAR authorities. The refugees belong to the Masalit, Fur, Dojou, Tama and Kara groups …

… According to local sources, many more are making their way to Sam Ouandja to join those so far registered by the local CAR authorities. The refugees belong to the Masalit, Fur, Dojou, Tama and Kara groups.

“We did not find evidence of the presence of armed elements in the group, and the refugees assured the mission that everyone orginated from Daffaq in Sudan,” said Bruno Geddo, a UNHCR representative.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the civilian and humanitarian character of the operation,” he added. (full text).